How Many Attempts Are Allowed for the CompTIA Security+ Exam? A Complete Guide to Retakes, Strategies, and Success

The CompTIA Security+ certification serves as a foundational benchmark for cybersecurity professionals seeking to validate their skills in securing networks, identifying vulnerabilities, and implementing proactive security measures. This globally recognized credential provides an entry point for individuals looking to build a career in cybersecurity or strengthen their existing IT capabilities with core security competencies.

In today’s interconnected digital landscape, organizations face increasing threats from both internal and external sources. As a result, the demand for certified security professionals has grown rapidly. CompTIA Security+ is among the most sought-after certifications because it covers essential topics, including threat analysis, incident response, security architecture, cryptography, and governance.

Security+ is unique in that it provides practical, real-world security knowledge rather than focusing solely on theory. By earning this certification, professionals demonstrate that they possess the necessary skills to identify risks, apply mitigation strategies, and implement effective security controls across a variety of environments.

Understanding what the Security+ certification entails and how to prepare for it can be the difference between passing on your first attempt and needing multiple tries. With the right planning and strategies, you can confidently take the exam and succeed.

Overview of the Security+ Exam Structure

Before embarking on your study plan, it’s essential to understand the structure of the Security+ exam. The exam currently in use is coded as SY0-701, which reflects the most recent update to the certification. CompTIA revises the exam every few years to keep up with changes in cybersecurity practices and technologies, ensuring candidates are tested on current knowledge.

The Security+ exam consists of a maximum of 90 questions, and candidates are given 90 minutes to complete the exam. The types of questions include multiple-choice (both single and multiple response) as well as performance-based questions, which require test-takers to solve problems in simulated real-world scenarios.

The exam covers five primary domains:

Attacks, Threats, and Vulnerabilities
Architecture and Design
Implementation
Operations and Incident Response
Governance, Risk, and Compliance

Each of these domains tests a candidate’s ability to apply knowledge and perform tasks relevant to today’s cybersecurity environments.

The passing score is 750 out of a possible 900 points. Not all questions are weighted equally, and CompTIA uses a scaled scoring model, meaning some questions may contribute more to the final score than others. Because of this, even seasoned professionals may find it challenging to predict their performance.

Why the Security+ Exam Can Be Difficult

Many individuals underestimate the difficulty of the Security+ exam because it is labeled as entry-level. However, its comprehensive nature and emphasis on practical understanding make it one of the more challenging foundational certifications. This is especially true for individuals who do not have previous experience working in cybersecurity or IT.

The exam requires not only the ability to memorize definitions and concepts but also to apply them in hypothetical scenarios. Performance-based questions, in particular, are known to be tricky because they simulate real-life security issues that require logical thinking, prioritization, and technical knowledge.

Moreover, because the exam is regularly updated, candidates must ensure their study materials align with the latest version of the exam. Outdated materials could lead to knowledge gaps that directly affect exam performance.

Another challenge is time management. With 90 questions to complete in 90 minutes, candidates must average one question per minute, which is particularly demanding when it comes to performance-based questions that take longer to analyze and solve.

How Many Attempts Are Allowed

A common concern among candidates is how many times they can take the Security+ exam if they do not pass on the first try. The good news is that there is no limit to the number of attempts you can make to pass the exam. However, there are rules in place to prevent abuse of the testing system.

After your first failed attempt, there is no required waiting period before your second attempt. You can reschedule the exam as soon as you feel ready to try again. However, if you fail a second time, CompTIA requires a mandatory 14-day waiting period before a third attempt. This same 14-day waiting period applies to any subsequent attempts after that.

It is important to note that each attempt requires a new exam voucher, which means you will need to pay the full exam fee each time you retake the test. CompTIA does not offer free retakes or discounts for multiple attempts. Therefore, careful preparation is vital to avoid additional costs.

Also, once you have passed the exam, you are not allowed to retake it using the same version code (e.g., SY0-701) unless given special permission by CompTIA. The only time you might retake the same certification is if a new version is released and you want to stay updated.

CompTIA Retake Policies and Rules

CompTIA has specific policies in place to ensure the integrity of the certification process. Violating these policies can result in disqualification, suspension, or even a permanent ban from their certification program.

Candidates are not allowed to retake beta exams more than once. Beta exams are released for new versions of certifications and are used to test the effectiveness of exam content before the official version is released. Only one attempt is permitted during the beta testing phase.

Additionally, repeated violations of the retake policy—such as attempting to take the same exam version multiple times after passing—can result in the invalidation of your certification or exclusion from the program altogether.

To avoid these issues, make sure you thoroughly review CompTIA’s official exam retake policy and adhere to the outlined rules.

Factors That Influence How Many Attempts You May Need

While there is no universal answer to how many attempts it will take to pass the Security+ exam, several individual factors can heavily influence your chances of success.

Personal learning style plays a significant role. Some individuals learn best through visual aids, others through hands-on practice, and some prefer reading and note-taking. Knowing how you learn best can help you choose the most effective preparation materials and study methods.

Previous experience in IT or cybersecurity can also be an advantage. If you already know networking, threat mitigation, and system administration, you may find that much of the exam content is familiar. Conversely, if you’re entering the field from scratch, you may need more time to understand the foundational principles before attempting the exam.

Access to high-quality study resources can also impact your performance. Books, online training programs, instructor-led classes, and practice exams all contribute to your overall readiness. Engaging with online forums or study groups can help clarify complex topics and provide peer support during your preparation journey.

Finally, personal time commitment is a critical factor. If you’re studying while working full-time, your preparation might take longer. Creating a consistent study schedule and allocating dedicated hours to review material is crucial for making steady progress.

Building a Study Plan for First-Attempt Success

One of the best ways to reduce the number of exam attempts is to create a well-structured study plan. This plan should be based on your current knowledge level, the amount of time you can dedicate, and the date you plan to take the exam.

Start by obtaining a copy of the official CompTIA Security+ exam objectives. This document breaks down the topics you’ll need to study and can be used as a checklist to track your progress. From there, you can allocate study time for each domain and make adjustments based on your strengths and weaknesses.

Many candidates find that a combination of study materials yields the best results. Consider using:

Comprehensive textbooks aligned with the current version of the exam
Online video courses for visual learners
Practice exams to simulate the real test experience
Flashcards to reinforce key terms and concepts
Virtual labs or simulation platforms to gain hands-on experience

Divide your study sessions into manageable blocks of time. For example, dedicate one to two hours each evening to reviewing material and completing practice questions. On weekends, schedule longer study sessions or review full practice exams under timed conditions.

Don’t forget to build in time for rest and review. Repetition and reinforcement help retain information over time. Cramming, on the other hand, may lead to short-term gains but poor long-term retention.

Benefits of Passing on the First Attempt

Passing the Security+ exam on your first try not only saves money and time but also provides a significant confidence boost. Certification opens doors to job opportunities, promotions, and additional certifications. For professionals working in or seeking positions in government roles, having this certification is often a requirement for employment.

Achieving a passing score on your first attempt demonstrates to employers that you are well-prepared, serious about your career, and able to meet industry standards without delay.

It also allows you to move forward in your learning journey more quickly. Once Security+ is complete, you can begin preparing for more advanced certifications such as CompTIA CySA+, CASP+, CEH, or CISSP, depending on your career goals.

Realistic Expectations and a Positive Mindset

While it’s ideal to pass the Security+ exam on your first attempt, it’s also important to keep a healthy perspective. Not everyone succeeds the first time, and that’s okay. Each attempt is a learning opportunity that helps you better understand the material, refine your test-taking skills, and grow your confidence.

Rather than seeing a failed attempt as a setback, treat it as valuable feedback. Use your exam results to identify weak areas and focus your study efforts accordingly. Many successful professionals have taken multiple attempts before passing, and their careers are just as successful—sometimes more so—because of the perseverance they demonstrated.

The CompTIA Security+ exam is a challenging but achievable certification that can launch or enhance a cybersecurity career. While candidates are allowed multiple attempts, passing on the first try is both practical and rewarding. Success depends on a mix of factors, including study strategy, prior experience, resource availability, and time commitment.

Understanding the structure of the exam, adhering to CompTIA’s retake policies, and crafting a personalized study plan will help reduce the number of attempts needed. Whether you’re preparing for your first certification or adding Security+ to an existing resume, the effort you invest in preparing properly will pay dividends in your professional journey.

Mastering the CompTIA Security+ Exam: Study Strategies, Tools, and Practice Techniques

Passing the CompTIA Security+ exam requires more than just reading a few chapters from a textbook or watching video tutorials. Due to the exam’s dynamic structure and real-world focus, candidates must embrace a comprehensive and methodical approach to learning. This part of the article series explores advanced strategies for studying, managing performance-based questions, selecting resources, and using practical techniques to increase the likelihood of success—ideally on the first attempt.

Whether you’re just beginning your preparation or looking to refine your study process after a failed attempt, the insights here are designed to elevate your study effectiveness and give you the confidence to face the exam head-on.

Crafting a Personalized Study Plan

Every candidate enters the Security+ journey with different levels of experience, availability, and learning styles. That’s why having a personalized study plan is crucial. A well-structured plan takes your background, strengths, and weaknesses into account and helps you avoid wasted time and effort.

Start by reviewing the CompTIA Security+ exam objectives, which outline the five major domains of the exam. Break each domain into smaller subtopics and assign study sessions to each. For instance, if you struggle with cryptographic protocols, allocate more time to that section. Consider using a planner or digital calendar to track your schedule and milestones.

A balanced study plan should include:

Reading and reviewing materials
Practice questions and mock exams
Time for review and concept reinforcement
Practice labs and simulations
Periodic assessments to measure progress

Set realistic goals and avoid overloading your schedule. A steady pace with consistency will yield better results than cramming.

Effective Use of Study Materials

There’s no shortage of study materials for the Security+ exam, but the challenge is knowing which ones to use and how to use them effectively. Combining different types of content—textbooks, videos, practice tests, and labs—will give you a broader understanding of concepts and reinforce retention.

Common study materials include:

Certification guides specifically aligned with the SY0-701 version
Video lectures that break down complex topics with visual examples
Flashcards for quick review of key terms and definitions
Study apps that allow learning on the go
Simulation tools or virtual labs to practice hands-on skills

When selecting materials, ensure they are updated to match the latest exam version. Using outdated resources could leave you unprepared for new types of questions or technologies introduced in the most recent release.

Don’t rely on a single resource. Reading a textbook provides structure and foundational knowledge, while video lectures can clarify difficult topics. Practice exams are essential for familiarizing yourself with the exam format and building time management skills.

Practice Exams and Timed Assessments

One of the most critical components of Security+ preparation is taking practice exams. These simulate the actual test environment and allow you to assess your readiness before exam day. Timed assessments help you adapt to the pressure of answering 90 questions in 90 minutes while highlighting areas that need more focus.

Begin by taking an untimed practice exam to establish a baseline. Then, work on domain-specific quizzes to target weak points. As you grow more confident, start taking full-length, timed practice exams under realistic conditions.

Analyze your results after each attempt. Don’t just look at your score—review the questions you missed and understand why the correct answers were right. This feedback loop is essential for learning from mistakes and deepening your knowledge.

Practice exams also train your brain to recognize patterns and improve decision-making speed, especially when faced with tricky or similar-looking questions. Over time, this experience helps reduce anxiety and builds familiarity with the exam format.

Tackling Performance-Based Questions

Performance-based questions (PBQs) are one of the most challenging parts of the Security+ exam. These questions present real-world scenarios and ask you to solve problems or demonstrate a security concept using simulated tools or interfaces.

PBQs can involve:

Configuring firewall settings
Analyzing log files
Identifying vulnerabilities in a system diagram
Implementing multi-factor authentication
Applying secure configurations to devices

Because they are task-oriented, PBQs require not just theoretical knowledge but also practical skills. The best way to prepare is by engaging in hands-on labs and virtual environments. These tools let you apply what you’ve learned in a simulated setting, bridging the gap between memorization and real-world application.

In some cases, PBQs are drag-and-drop style questions where you arrange elements in the correct order or match configurations to devices. In others, you may need to identify areas of concern in a visual interface, such as a network layout or system dashboard.

Remember that PBQs can take longer to answer than multiple-choice questions. Strategically, some candidates choose to skip PBQs and return to them after completing the rest of the exam to ensure they don’t run out of time. You can mark questions for review and revisit them before submitting your test.

Leveraging Online Communities and Study Groups

Studying for the Security+ exam doesn’t have to be a solitary experience. Engaging with online communities, forums, or local study groups can provide motivation, accountability, and valuable insight. Fellow candidates often share their experiences, practice tips, and explanations that clarify confusing concepts.

Participating in group discussions exposes you to different perspectives and strategies for tackling difficult topics. Sometimes, hearing how another person remembers a concept or breaks down a process can help it click for you.

Online forums also provide updates about exam changes, emerging study resources, and useful test-day tips. While it’s important to verify any information against official CompTIA sources, these discussions can offer practical advice and moral support throughout your study journey.

Time Management During the Exam

Many candidates struggle not because they don’t know the content, but because they mismanage their time. With a strict 90-minute time limit and up to 90 questions to answer, proper pacing is essential.

Practice exams are the best way to refine your pacing. Track how long it takes you to complete different types of questions and adjust your timing strategies accordingly. For example, aim to complete standard multiple-choice questions in under one minute to leave more time for PBQs.

If you encounter a difficult question, avoid dwelling on it. Mark it for review and move on. Wasting time early in the exam can cause you to rush through easier questions later, potentially leading to mistakes.

Use the review function to revisit marked questions once all others are complete. This approach ensures you’ve answered as many questions as possible within the allotted time and can spend any extra minutes reviewing your answers more calmly.

Avoiding Common Pitfalls

Even well-prepared candidates can make errors on test day that undermine their chances of passing. Being aware of common mistakes helps you avoid them and stay focused under pressure.

Some frequent pitfalls include:

Misreading questions: Take your time to read each question carefully. Look for qualifiers like best, least, or most effective, which can completely change the context.
Skipping instructions: In PBQs, make sure you fully understand what is being asked before attempting to complete the task.
Ignoring the clock: Keep an eye on the time. Don’t let one question consume five or ten minutes.
Overthinking: Sometimes, the simplest answer is the correct one. Don’t talk yourself out of an answer that seems right without a good reason.
Failing to use breaks: If you’re testing at a center and become mentally fatigued, it’s okay to pause briefly to reset your focus. While you can’t leave the testing room, closing your eyes for ten seconds or doing deep breathing can help you stay composed.

Maintaining Focus and Confidence

Mental preparation is as important as technical knowledge. Approaching the exam with a calm, focused mindset can dramatically improve performance. Anxiety and self-doubt can impair your decision-making, especially under time pressure.

Build confidence through repetition. The more practice exams you complete and the more hands-on experience you gain, the more confident you’ll become. Familiarity breeds comfort, and comfort reduces test-day anxiety.

Visualize your success. Imagine yourself walking into the exam center, answering questions calmly, and receiving a passing score. Positive visualization is a powerful mental tool used by high performers in every industry—from sports to business—and can be equally effective in exam preparation.

Staying Healthy During the Study Period

Preparing for a certification exam can become mentally and physically exhausting if you don’t balance your efforts. Make sure to:

Get sufficient sleep, especially the night before your exam
Stay hydrated and maintain a nutritious diet
Take regular breaks during study sessions
Include physical activity in your routine to boost focus and energy

Burnout is a real risk during intense preparation. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle supports cognitive function and helps you retain information more effectively.

Tools and Resources Worth Considering

To optimize your study process, consider using:

Virtual labs that simulate Security+ tasks and configurations
Flashcard apps for quick review sessions
Audio lessons for learning on the go
Mind maps and flowcharts to visualize complex topics
Weekly progress trackers to assess readiness

Some platforms also offer gamified quizzes that add a fun element to learning, which can make it easier to stay motivated during longer study periods.

If budget allows, enroll in a structured course taught by certified instructors. These courses often include labs, practice exams, and one-on-one mentoring that can fill in any knowledge gaps and speed up your progress.

Life After Passing the CompTIA Security+ Exam: Career Impact, Continuing Education, and Long-Term Value

Earning the CompTIA Security+ certification is more than a personal milestone—it can be a defining moment in your professional journey. Once you’ve passed the exam, your horizons expand in terms of job roles, salary potential, and opportunities for further advancement. But your journey doesn’t end with a passing score. The Security+ certification opens doors to long-term success in the cybersecurity field, and how you leverage it afterward determines the true value of your achievement.

In this final part of the series, we’ll explore what happens after you pass the Security+ exam. From career prospects and roles to continuing education paths and certification maintenance, this guide will help you navigate the post-certification landscape and plan your next steps confidently.

Immediate Actions After Passing the Exam

Once you receive confirmation that you’ve passed the Security+ exam, it’s important to take a few key actions to start maximizing the benefits right away.

First, download your certification transcript and digital badge. These are essential tools when applying for jobs or updating your resume and LinkedIn profile. Digital badges provide employers with instant verification of your credential and link to details about the exam’s scope and relevance.

Next, update your resume and professional profiles to include your new certification. Emphasize your understanding of core security principles, risk management, compliance, and your hands-on ability to secure environments. This update can significantly increase your visibility to recruiters and hiring managers searching for cybersecurity professionals.

If you’re currently employed in IT, share the news with your supervisor. Security+ certification can qualify you for internal promotions or added responsibilities, especially in security compliance, auditing, or incident response roles.

Career Opportunities with a Security+ Certification

The CompTIA Security+ certification qualifies professionals for a wide variety of entry-level and intermediate cybersecurity roles. Employers view it as a strong indicator that a candidate has foundational knowledge, practical problem-solving ability, and a commitment to professional growth.

Some common job titles associated with Security+ certification include:

Security Analyst
Network Administrator
Information Security Specialist
Systems Administrator
Security Operations Center (SOC) Analyst
IT Support Specialist (with a security focus)
Junior Penetration Tester
Risk Analyst or Compliance Specialist

Security+ is often a requirement for government-related jobs in the United States due to its compliance with Department of Defense directive 8570.01-M. If you’re pursuing a role with the military or a government contractor, this certification can be your ticket into highly regulated, secure environments.

For private-sector professionals, it helps meet baseline requirements in industries such as healthcare, finance, manufacturing, education, and technology services. Virtually every sector today faces cybersecurity risks, and certified professionals are needed to manage and mitigate them.

Salary Expectations and Growth Potential

While salaries vary depending on region, employer, and experience, the Security+ certification can significantly increase earning potential—especially when combined with other certifications or experience. On average, professionals holding Security+ can expect to earn between $60,000 to $90,000 annually in entry- to mid-level roles, with higher pay in urban areas or government jobs.

More experienced professionals or those in roles with additional responsibilities—such as managing teams or leading incident response efforts—can command salaries well over $100,000 per year, particularly if the Security+ is complemented with higher-level credentials like CISSP or CEH.

Security+ also helps you qualify for roles with strong upward mobility. Many employers use it as a stepping stone in internal promotion paths, leading to senior-level positions in information security, compliance, auditing, and cybersecurity architecture.

Planning the Next Step in Your Learning Journey

After passing the Security+ exam, many professionals wonder, “What now?” The answer depends on your career interests and the specialization you wish to pursue. Security+ lays the foundation for more advanced certifications and technical skills.

Here are some recommended pathways depending on your desired direction:

For cyber defense and blue team roles: Consider CompTIA CySA+ (Cybersecurity Analyst) to build on your knowledge of threat detection and response.
For penetration testing and ethical hacking: EC-Council’s CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker) or CompTIA PenTest+ are natural next steps.
For leadership or governance roles: Pursue CompTIA CASP+ (Advanced Security Practitioner) or ISACA’s CISM (Certified Information Security Manager).
For enterprise-level careers: CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional) by (ISC)² is widely recognized and respected globally.

Each of these certifications has different prerequisites, and Security+ is often the first milestone that makes you eligible for more advanced training and assessments.

Besides certifications, consider expanding your technical skills in areas like cloud security, DevSecOps, secure coding practices, digital forensics, or incident response. Learning platforms and university-affiliated online programs offer courses that go beyond certification prep and help deepen your expertise in focused areas.

Understanding Certification Renewal and CEUs

CompTIA certifications are not lifetime credentials. Security+ must be renewed every three years to remain active. Thankfully, there are several ways to maintain your certification status without retaking the exam.

The most common renewal method is through CompTIA’s Continuing Education (CE) program. You earn Continuing Education Units (CEUs) by participating in qualifying activities such as:

Attending industry conferences or webinars
Completing security-related training courses
Earning higher-level certifications
Publishing articles or conducting presentations on security topics
Engaging in hands-on lab simulations
Taking college-level courses in information security

You’ll need to accumulate a minimum of 50 CEUs over the three-year period to maintain your certification. CompTIA provides a dashboard where you can upload and track your CE activities.

Another option is CertMaster CE, CompTIA’s self-paced recertification course. It provides a streamlined way to renew your Security+ without the pressure of taking another exam. It’s especially useful for busy professionals who want a focused review instead of starting from scratch.

Renewal keeps your certification aligned with evolving industry standards and shows employers that you are staying current with cybersecurity trends.

Building a Professional Network in Cybersecurity

Certification is a solid start, but ongoing success in cybersecurity often depends on professional relationships and community involvement. After passing the Security+ exam, consider joining professional groups, attending networking events, and connecting with others in the field.

Cybersecurity conferences, both virtual and in-person, offer excellent opportunities to meet experts, recruiters, and peers. Events like Black Hat, DEF CON, and regional ISACA meetings can expose you to cutting-edge tools, thought leadership, and job leads.

Social platforms like LinkedIn and discussion communities such as Reddit’s r/cybersecurity or TechExams forums provide support and engagement with fellow professionals. Sharing your experience, asking questions, and helping others reinforce your knowledge and increase your visibility in the industry.

Mentorship is another path worth exploring. Many seasoned professionals are willing to share guidance with those just entering the field. Whether through structured programs or informal connections, mentorship can provide invaluable insights and career direction.

Continuing to Build Practical Skills

While certifications validate knowledge, practical experience is what solidifies it. After passing Security+, consider applying your skills through personal projects, lab environments, or volunteer opportunities. Building a home lab or participating in capture-the-flag (CTF) challenges can sharpen your real-world capabilities.

Look for internships, freelance roles, or volunteer positions where you can contribute to security-related tasks like vulnerability scanning, firewall configuration, or risk assessments. These experiences enhance your resume and make you more attractive to future employers.

Document your projects and skills development in a portfolio. Include configurations you’ve built, security tools you’ve used, or case studies of problems you’ve solved. A strong portfolio demonstrates initiative, creativity, and technical ability—all essential traits for cybersecurity professionals.

Long-Term Benefits of the Security+ Certification

Security+ is more than a credential—it’s a career launchpad. It gives professionals a reliable way to validate their skills, gain industry recognition, and access career paths that were previously out of reach. As technology continues to evolve and cyber threats become more complex, Security+ certification holders remain in high demand across sectors.

Some of the long-term benefits include:

Enhanced job stability and security
Competitive salaries and better benefits
Clear pathways to career specialization and leadership roles
Global recognition of your qualifications
Increased eligibility for government and defense roles

Security+ also proves useful when transitioning into other tech areas like cloud computing, DevOps, or data protection, as security now intersects with nearly every discipline in IT.

Employers increasingly prioritize professionals with foundational security knowledge, even for roles not traditionally labeled as “cybersecurity.” Whether you’re in networking, systems administration, or software development, Security+ gives you a security-first mindset that is highly valued across industries.

Keeping Momentum After Certification

After passing Security+, it’s easy to relax—but the best move is to maintain momentum. Use your motivation and confidence to dive deeper into topics that interest you or start working toward your next certification. Set new goals, map out your career path, and commit to lifelong learning.

Cybersecurity is one of the fastest-evolving fields in IT. To stay competitive, you’ll need to stay informed. Follow industry blogs, subscribe to threat intelligence feeds, and monitor vulnerability reports. Becoming a consistent learner not only protects your career—it allows you to grow into roles of increasing influence and responsibility.

Set a three-year career plan: Where do you want to be, what roles interest you, and what skills will get you there? Revisit and revise the plan annually to adapt to new trends, opportunities, or changes in your interests.

Conclusion

Passing the CompTIA Security+ exam is more than just checking off a requirement—it’s a strategic career decision that can lead to lasting success in IT and cybersecurity. From the moment you pass, you gain recognition, access to new job roles, and a foundation for continuous advancement.

The journey doesn’t end with certification. It continues through skill development, ongoing education, professional networking, and contribution to the cybersecurity community. Whether you’re looking to move into advanced technical roles, management, or specialized fields like ethical hacking or digital forensics, Security+ is your launchpad.

Stay curious, stay current, and continue building. The cybersecurity world is vast, and with the right mindset and strategy, your Security+ certification can take you further than you imagined.